HALTON children who live in deprived areas of Widnes and Runcorn could face a higher risk of being killed in a road accident than their better off counterparts.

Research by Dr Nicola Christie at Surrey University suggests that two main factors may be at work.

Children in deprived areas are more likely not to have access to a car or public transport and are more likely to walk to destinations. They are also more likely to play in the street with an increased risk of falling foul of the traffic.

The other concerns the layout of older housing areas. Known as 'grid iron' street patterns, most commonly seen in terraced areas, the roads tends to be straight with sharp right-angled junctions which en-courage motorists to drive at excessive speeds.

By contrast, newer estates tend to feature cul-de-sacs and a curving street pattern which acts as natural traffic calming zones.

Dr Christie said: 'Mature estates and roads networks were built before the advent of mass car ownership and there is also the hazard of on-street parking.

'Children from deprived families are more exposed to risk as they may not have access to a car and spend more time walking because public transport is not available or reliable. Many children are injured in traffic accidents when they are using the streets for recreation because it is often the only place to play.'

She added: 'Some lateral thinking is needed. Local authorities may need to provide more widespread and cheaper facilities and play schemes combined with accessible transport. The benefits could be wider than road safety with children less likely to be exposed to the risks associated with street life.'

David Williams, chief executive of the Guild of Experienced Motorists (GEM), said: 'We are concerned about the safety of all road users and Dr Christie's important article reveals that those who cannot choose where they live - especially children - face additional risks.

'It also enhances the GEM's argument that the British Summer Time should be maintained all year round so that children are not playing on the street in late afternoon dusk.'